The homeowners did an extensive renovation of the inside of the house, and wanted to radically change the front yard and driveway as well.  The house had a circular driveway - a convenience since its on a busy street.  But the new floor plan called for large windows at the front.  The homeowner said: "I don't want to see cars parked outside my windows!".  Since almost the whole front yard was driveway, and it sloped somewhat toward the house, I knew I would have to use a raised bed for planting so that there could be decent soil and proper drainage.  The raised bed would also help with privacy.  The design:  Keep both curb cuts, but eliminate the middle of the circular driveway.  Build a raised bed extending from the "driveway side" (in front of the garage) to the "parking pad side" (a single space by the other curb cut).  Maintain access to the front door from both directions with connecting paths.  Include planting beds next to the house (the close-in view out the windows), and, for the raised bed, screening evergreens layered with shrubs, small trees, perennials and ornamental grasses to create privacy from the busy street.